Social support assessment scores and what they mean

28 to 38 total points:Congratulations! You've got a great support network around you. Of course, that's not all you'll need to succeed with a good nutrition and exercise program, but it's a great start. Even though you may have scored relatively high on this questionnaire, remember that social support works both ways: in order to make sure you keep this great group of people around you, you'll have to offer support to them as well.

5 to 19 total points:It looks like you've got some social support around you but there are obviously a few areas of your life that will present challenges. Be aware of workplace challenges, at-home challenges, and relationship challenges that might stand in your way. Make sure to review the potential problems noted in the questionnaire and come up with creative ways to improve the social environment around you.

4 to -14 total points:Your social support is lacking and needs a makeover. While some of your environment isn't conducive to your goals, there are come areas that you can begin to explore. Identify which areas are deficient in the questionnaire, then take steps to fix them. Join a health club, dine with friends committed to health, spend time doing nonfood-related things with other friends, and avoid the doughnut tray at work. And remember, although it's easy to blame those around you for not being as supportive as you'd like, choosing new exercise and nutrition goals is your choice, not necessarily theirs. Instead of blaming them, simply come up with creative and non-antagonistic ways to enlist their support.

-15 to -31 total points:This score is quite low and therefore signals some real problems in your work and at-home environments, as well as in your relationships. Of course, some people have been known to succeed in reaching their goals by going it alone. But succeeding with a "lone ranger" mentality is too difficult for most to accomplish. Without some serious changes, your environment will almost certainly cause your old habits to surface. Important changes may include: having a serious talk with your friends and family in order to express to them how important this is to you; going out immediately and joining a club or group that meets for regular exercise; or finding a workout partner that is as motivated as yourself. And remember, although it's easy to blame those around you for not being as supportive as you'd like, instead of blaming them, simply come up with creative and non-antagonistic ways to enlist their support. Of course, if it comes down to it, pick some new friends. Your social group is one of the most important variables in your success.

Avoid the inevitable consequence of incurring a chronic disease from living a sedentary existence and instead exercise regularly. You'll end up saving money by not needing expensive medications and surgery down the road.